Thoughts on your front 7 and QB

[shakes3858]

NU couldn’t get the front 7 of Wisconsin or PSU blocked. We seem to be worse at blocking a 3-4 and 3-3-5 stack where communication is needed and the blocking assignments aren’t as straight forward than the 4-3. What defense are you running? How is the front 7? Do you see Brohm stuffing the box? Michigan State used that approach.

How is the QB? Tough loss having Blough go down. Gotta feel bad for the young man and your program which is starting to turn the corner after getting rid of a couple bad coaching hires. What type of QB is he? Thrower? Runner? Dual threat?

 

[JohnnyDoeBoiler]

NU couldn’t get the front 7 of Wisconsin or PSU blocked. We seem to be worse at blocking a 3-4 and 3-3-5 stack where communication is needed and the blocking assignments aren’t as straight forward than the 4-3. What defense are you running? How is the front 7? Do you see Brohm stuffing the box? Michigan State used that approach.

How is the QB? Tough loss having Blough go down. Gotta feel bad for the young man and your program which is starting to turn the corner after getting rid of a couple bad coaching hires. What type of QB is he? Thrower? Runner? Dual threat?

Defense: Purdue runs, what I believe to be, a 3-4 with a stand-up DE/LB in Danny E. He doesn't put his hand in the dirt but his job is essentially to make plays on the outside and get to the QB. He has done a very good job up to this point of the season with 29 total tackles, 6 TFL's, 4 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FF, and 3 FR's. The front seven is really where the strength of the defense has been all season but the depth is usually the concern. Some young guys have stepped up throughout the season (LB Derrick Barnes for example) but the true strength is in the very experienced LB's. MLB Jawhan Bentley has 74 tackles, 8.5 TFL's, 1 INT, and 3 passes defended, Markus Bailey has 58 total tackles, 7 TFL's, 5 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FR, and 1FF, and TJ McCollum has 40 tackles, 2 TFL's, and 1 PD (McCollum has missed the previous 4 games with injury but is a game time decision to return this week). The two DT's in Robinson and Neal have combined for 3 sacks and 13 TFL's for the season.

The main issue with the defense is the DB's and Purdue has been without their best CB for the last two games...which hurt against Nebraska. Purdue went with a different CB in the second half of the Illinois game and he appears to be a much better coverage CB (Tim Cason). It is an opportunistic defense that 15 TO's on the season but went through a dry spell for two games before getting a TO against Illinois in the second half. Your QB is subject to some INT problems it appears and Purdue has shown a knack for making some defensive plays in the past. If Purdue can get two TO's, they have a chance...especially if they give the improving offense a short field to play with.

Purdue appears to be some what aggressive at times and if Hunte is able to play, you may see Purdue play man to man on the outside to try and bottle up the NU running game. If that happens, it allows the safeties to play the pass better and focus more attention there to help the CB's.

Sindelar has been good at times and shows an ability to play well at times...but the offense has stalled at times with him at the helm. He is a total statue in the pocket BUT he moves better inside the pocket than Blough did. He has an ability to run if a lane opens up but he isn't going to run much of the spread option runs that Purdue was showing with Blough. Likely you will see Jared Sparks, who now plays WR, to get snaps in what Purdue calls their NASCAR package. Sparks is probably one of the best overall athletes on the field and has an ability to throw the ball as he spent the entire spring and summer playing QB under Brohm's tutelage...he'll just have to get coached up a bit on his reads. Likely he'll have RPO's where there are only two passing options (short and medium). Given the chance, he can break off a long run.

Purdue will likely lean very heavily on the running game this week and then try to play action pass over the top using Sindelar's ability to push the ball downfield versus Blough's quick thinking and accuracy on the short routes.

 

[Hausta01]

Sindelar is a pocket QB, big arm can make all the throws, but has little to no mobility.

Our front 7 is the strength of our defense, we run a 3-4ish. We don't have a great pass rush but we don't leave much room for anyone to run, unless you are Wisconsin.

 

[shakes3858]

Great stuff. Thanks guys.

 

[PurdueTiger]

Sindelar is a pocket QB, big arm can make all the throws, but has little to no mobility.

Our front 7 is the strength of our defense, we run a 3-4ish. We don't have a great pass rush but we don't leave much room for anyone to run, unless you are Wisconsin.

You are right but the Badgers got a lot of their rushing yardage in the first eight minutes of the game,and about the last five.

 

[punaj]

Defense: Purdue runs, what I believe to be, a 3-4 with a stand-up DE/LB in Danny E. He doesn't put his hand in the dirt but his job is essentially to make plays on the outside and get to the QB. He has done a very good job up to this point of the season with 29 total tackles, 6 TFL's, 4 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FF, and 3 FR's. The front seven is really where the strength of the defense has been all season but the depth is usually the concern. Some young guys have stepped up throughout the season (LB Derrick Barnes for example) but the true strength is in the very experienced LB's. MLB Jawhan Bentley has 74 tackles, 8.5 TFL's, 1 INT, and 3 passes defended, Markus Bailey has 58 total tackles, 7 TFL's, 5 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FR, and 1FF, and TJ McCollum has 40 tackles, 2 TFL's, and 1 PD (McCollum has missed the previous 4 games with injury but is likely to return this week). The two DT's in Robinson and Neal have combined for 3 sacks and 13 TFL's for the season.

The main issue with the defense is the DB's and Purdue has been without their best CB for the last two games...which hurt against Nebraska. Purdue went with a different CB in the second half of the Illinois game and he appears to be a much better coverage CB (Tim Cason). It is an opportunistic defense that 15 TO's on the season but went through a dry spell for two games before getting a TO against Illinois in the second half. Your QB is subject to some INT problems it appears and Purdue has shown a knack for making some defensive plays in the past. If Purdue can get two TO's, they have a chance...especially if they give the improving offense a short field to play with.

Purdue appears to be some what aggressive at times and if Hunte is able to play, you may see Purdue play man to man on the outside to try and bottle up the NU running game. If that happens, it allows the safeties to play the pass better and focus more attention there to help the CB's.

Sindelar has been good at times and shows an ability to play well at times...but the offense has stalled at times with him at the helm. He is a total statue in the pocket BUT he moves better inside the pocket than Blough did. He has an ability to run if a lane opens up but he isn't going to run much of the spread option runs that Purdue was showing with Blough. Likely you will see Jared Sparks, who now plays WR, to get snaps in what Purdue calls their NASCAR package. Sparks is probably one of the best overall athletes on the field and has an ability to throw the ball as he spent the entire spring and summer playing QB under Brohm's tutelage...he'll just have to get coached up a bit on his reads. Likely he'll have RPO's where there are only two passing options (short and medium). Given the chance, he can break off a long run.

Purdue will likely lean very heavily on the running game this week and then try to play action pass over the top using Sindelar's ability to push the ball downfield versus Blough's quick thinking and accuracy on the short routes.

Love the time and thought you put into your posts here. I can see why you’re a teacher. Your students are lucky to have you.

 

[npb]

NU couldn’t get the front 7 of Wisconsin or PSU blocked. We seem to be worse at blocking a 3-4 and 3-3-5 stack where communication is needed and the blocking assignments aren’t as straight forward than the 4-3. What defense are you running? How is the front 7? Do you see Brohm stuffing the box? Michigan State used that approach.

How is the QB? Tough loss having Blough go down. Gotta feel bad for the young man and your program which is starting to turn the corner after getting rid of a couple bad coaching hires. What type of QB is he? Thrower? Runner? Dual threat?

He has a very strong arm...very accurate with the log ball. Needs to improve his soft ball for shorter routes. He is strong and sees the field very well. He is going to be good. Norm

 

[Purdue85]

Defense: Purdue runs, what I believe to be, a 3-4 with a stand-up DE/LB in Danny E. He doesn't put his hand in the dirt but his job is essentially to make plays on the outside and get to the QB. He has done a very good job up to this point of the season with 29 total tackles, 6 TFL's, 4 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FF, and 3 FR's. The front seven is really where the strength of the defense has been all season but the depth is usually the concern. Some young guys have stepped up throughout the season (LB Derrick Barnes for example) but the true strength is in the very experienced LB's. MLB Jawhan Bentley has 74 tackles, 8.5 TFL's, 1 INT, and 3 passes defended, Markus Bailey has 58 total tackles, 7 TFL's, 5 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FR, and 1FF, and TJ McCollum has 40 tackles, 2 TFL's, and 1 PD (McCollum has missed the previous 4 games with injury but is likely to return this week). The two DT's in Robinson and Neal have combined for 3 sacks and 13 TFL's for the season.

The main issue with the defense is the DB's and Purdue has been without their best CB for the last two games...which hurt against Nebraska. Purdue went with a different CB in the second half of the Illinois game and he appears to be a much better coverage CB (Tim Cason). It is an opportunistic defense that 15 TO's on the season but went through a dry spell for two games before getting a TO against Illinois in the second half. Your QB is subject to some INT problems it appears and Purdue has shown a knack for making some defensive plays in the past. If Purdue can get two TO's, they have a chance...especially if they give the improving offense a short field to play with.

Purdue appears to be some what aggressive at times and if Hunte is able to play, you may see Purdue play man to man on the outside to try and bottle up the NU running game. If that happens, it allows the safeties to play the pass better and focus more attention there to help the CB's.

Sindelar has been good at times and shows an ability to play well at times...but the offense has stalled at times with him at the helm. He is a total statue in the pocket BUT he moves better inside the pocket than Blough did. He has an ability to run if a lane opens up but he isn't going to run much of the spread option runs that Purdue was showing with Blough. Likely you will see Jared Sparks, who now plays WR, to get snaps in what Purdue calls their NASCAR package. Sparks is probably one of the best overall athletes on the field and has an ability to throw the ball as he spent the entire spring and summer playing QB under Brohm's tutelage...he'll just have to get coached up a bit on his reads. Likely he'll have RPO's where there are only two passing options (short and medium). Given the chance, he can break off a long run.

Purdue will likely lean very heavily on the running game this week and then try to play action pass over the top using Sindelar's ability to push the ball downfield versus Blough's quick thinking and accuracy on the short routes.

Note the italics, and bold underlined text.

You might want to reconsider that point. Sparks has been under center a variety of times throughout the year, and with all the opportunities has YET to throw that first pass . . . which should tell you something..

He's an incredible athlete, yes. But a QB with an ability to throw the ball? If Brohm thought so we would have seen it by now. I'm just guessing . . . .

 

[FirstDownB]

Note the italics, and bold underlined text.

You might want to reconsider that point. Sparks has been under center a variety of times throughout the year, and with all the opportunities has YET to throw that first pass . . . which should tell you something..

He's an incredible athlete, yes. But a QB with an ability to throw the ball? If Brohm thought so we would have seen it by now. I'm just guessing . . . .

Yes. For any lurking Northwestern coaches this x1000.
Don’t bother considering his performance in the spring where he went tit for tat with Sindelar or consider that he was thought to be the #2 QB heading into fall camp. Pay no attention to his recruiting film, where he’s throwing 40 yard passes downfield in stride. He has no. ability. to. throw. None.

 

[shakes3858]

Yes. For any lurking Northwestern coaches this x1000.
Don’t bother considering his performance in the spring where he went tit for tat with Sindelar or consider that he was thought to be the #2 QB heading into fall camp. Pay no attention to his recruiting film, where he’s throwing 40 yard passes downfield in stride. He has no. ability. to. throw. None.

Which NU QB of the past would you compare him to or is he not at the level of any of them? You're making him sound like a Dan Persa, but does he even have the arm of Kain Colter?

 

[FirstDownB]

Which NU QB of the past would you compare him to or is he not at the level of any of them? You're making him sound like a Dan Persa, but does he even have the arm of Kain Colter?

I don't have a vast knowledge of Northwestern QB's, and Sparks doesn't have a body of work to make a comparison. He's probably on the level of the last Purdue QB to beat you guys in Evanston. He was recruited as a QB but was converted to WR. It's a moot point as you won't see much of Sparks at QB other than to run some read option or if Sindelar gets injured. The friendly debate above is whether Brohm has been setting up some pass plays out of the Sparks package, since he has only used it to run the ball thus far, and whether that is unleashed this week.

As for our starter, Sindelar, I would say a younger, less mobile Clayton Thorson might be a pretty good comp.

 

[JohnnyDoeBoiler]

Which NU QB of the past would you compare him to or is he not at the level of any of them? You're making him sound like a Dan Persa, but does he even have the arm of Kain Colter?

He isn't the level of Persa or Colter who I considered pretty decent B1G QB's for their system who could throw the ball pretty well...Sparks, until he shows his ability to throw in a game, i'll reserve and say he is average at throwing. As some one noted though, he out performed Sindelar and Blough in the spring game in a lot of people's minds.
I'd say he is pretty similar to what Purdue had in Justin Siller a few years ago...BUT he is probably an overall better athlete and throws the ball better.

 

[JohnnyDoeBoiler]

Love the time and thought you put into your posts here. I can see why you’re a teacher. Your students are lucky to have you.

Thanks for the kind words!

 

[SIBoiler2]

Note the italics, and bold underlined text.

You might want to reconsider that point. Sparks has been under center a variety of times throughout the year, and with all the opportunities has YET to throw that first pass . . . which should tell you something..

He's an incredible athlete, yes. But a QB with an ability to throw the ball? If Brohm thought so we would have seen it by now. I'm just guessing . . . .

I'm not even convinced that Sparks is able to hand the ball off let alone pass it.

 

[JohnnyDoeBoiler]

I'm not even convinced that Sparks is able to hand the ball off let alone pass it.

I know this is his high school highlight film...but if you watch (without the commentary), you'll notice a few things that Brohm will be able to copy and paste to make him efficient and effective if needed:

1. Sparks shows a good touch on his deep passes toward the sideline...something Brohm has made a point to focus.
2. On the last play of the highlight film, Sparks shows a good ability to throw on the run. This is the aspect I believe Brohm may look to expand on for Sparks in a RPO (run/pass option). Sparks may roll out of the pocket and be given two route options: a short and an intermediate route. He also has the option to run if it is open OR if the WR's are covered. Typically you would see a TE coming from across the field being the intermediate route and the WR from the short side of the field running a 10-15 yard out or a comeback route as well. The places a huge issue on the play side OLB and safety as if they do not cover the TE coming across (if playing a zone), it will lead to dink and dunk passes killing the defense down the field...if they cover that short route, it'll open up Sparks to a running lane.
3. Sparks could conceivably throw a deep ball as a simple drop back passer at times if a look is given and the safeties creep up against the traditional wildcat (NASCAR) package. I don't think NU has the horses on the outside to compete with Phillips and Mahoungo if they can go over the top frequently. If that's the case, Sparks is going to have lots of running room.
4. This is all said in a best case scenario. If Sparks can come in and give the offense a different look, gain 40-50 yards rushing, and possibly throw for 15-30 yards on top of that...it'll go a long way to Purdue being in the game late in the 4th quarter.

 

[PU52Chevy]

He is just Mr. Kentucky football.......nothing to worry about....tic.

And please sleep on Sparks too.......

 

[Purdue85]

I'm not even convinced that Sparks is able to hand the ball off let alone pass it.

I wouldn't go that far. He's highly talented. Like everyone else, has strengths and weaknesses.

 

[Purdue85]

Yes. For any lurking Northwestern coaches this x1000.
Don’t bother considering his performance in the spring where he went tit for tat with Sindelar or consider that he was thought to be the #2 QB heading into fall camp. Pay no attention to his recruiting film, where he’s throwing 40 yard passes downfield in stride. He has no. ability. to. throw. None.

Can you explain his zero pass attempts?

Cause I sure can't.

We can speculate all we want, but when you have someone so explosive as a runner, Brohm knows d@mn well how much it opens up the passing game. Sure makes one think there's a reason he hasn't tossed the ball. Not once.

Maybe they'll dispel the mystery this weekend . . .

 

[FirstDownB]

Can you explain his zero pass attempts?

Cause I sure can't.

We can speculate all we want, but when you have someone so explosive as a runner, Brohm knows d@mn well how much it opens up the passing game. Sure makes one think there's a reason he hasn't tossed the ball. Not once.

Maybe they'll dispel the mystery this weekend . . .

One possible explanation is there have been two healthy QB’s playing ahead of him who are better passers, one of which had some mobility. There’s only so much you can cram into a game plan for a week, and playing a third QB in a game is just asking for a turnover. With a full week’s prep as the #2 QB I would assume Sparks is taking a few more snaps. Might be a better time to throw in the pass option. We shall see in a few days, but to say he has no throwing ability is just flat wrong. Brohm wouldn’t have him as the backup QB with a bowl game in play if he couldn’t pass.

 

[SIBoiler2]

Defenses have learned to key on Sparks when he's in the backfield. 99% of the time he's taken the snap he's carried without any attempt to pass or hand off. He might be the world's greatest QB but he hasn't shown it yet.

 

[jmohlman]

He has a very strong arm...very accurate with the log ball. Needs to improve his soft ball for shorter routes. He is strong and sees the field very well. He is going to be good. Norm

He is certainly going to be good. He reminds me a lot of Bobby Hoying from Ohio State back in the 90s. He can make all the passes, his accuracy seems to be improving as he has spent the past couple of weeks working on fundamentals and practice. Quarterbacks will lineup in the future to come to Purdue under this coaching staff tutelage. If Jake Plummer hold his commitment like he should, I could see him redshirting if David is back and healthy. CJB knows what is coming into years, a good offense of line with blocking for running in passing as well as a defense that is "his recruits" and wide receivers and tight ends that can catch the ball when is throwing to them. I can see him playing his own fantasy game of recruiting and smiling all day long! Oh the recruits he can get in the B10 vs at WKU

 

[FLAG HUNTER]

He is certainly going to be good. He reminds me a lot of Bobby Hoying from Ohio State back in the 90s. He can make all the passes, his accuracy seems to be improving as he has spent the past couple of weeks working on fundamentals and practice. Quarterbacks will lineup in the future to come to Purdue under this coaching staff tutelage. If Jake Plummer hold his commitment like he should, I could see him redshirting if David is back and healthy. CJB knows what is coming into years, a good offense of line with blocking for running in passing as well as a defense that is "his recruits" and wide receivers and tight ends that can catch the ball when is throwing to them. I can see him playing his own fantasy game of recruiting and smiling all day long! Oh the recruits he can get in the B10 vs at WKU

Plummer is enrolling this January

 

[StickPurdue]

He is certainly going to be good. He reminds me a lot of Bobby Hoying from Ohio State back in the 90s. He can make all the passes, his accuracy seems to be improving as he has spent the past couple of weeks working on fundamentals and practice. Quarterbacks will lineup in the future to come to Purdue under this coaching staff tutelage. If Jake Plummer hold his commitment like he should, I could see him redshirting if David is back and healthy. CJB knows what is coming into years, a good offense of line with blocking for running in passing as well as a defense that is "his recruits" and wide receivers and tight ends that can catch the ball when is throwing to them. I can see him playing his own fantasy game of recruiting and smiling all day long! Oh the recruits he can get in the B10 vs at WKU

It was reported that Plummer is enrolling in January. That tells me 2 things. 1) he thinks he can play early, so getting in early to get stronger and gain weight helps his chances. 2) CJB likely told him if he wants any chance at playing as a true freshman he needed to arrive early.

I am like everybody else here. I don't know what Purdue has in Sipe, I don't know how Blough comes back, and I don't know how Sindelar improves being the sole QB. If Sindelar come out looking like an all pro and Blough is healthy, there is no way Plummer avoids the redshirt.

It's also possible that CJB is looking for a transfer. Hunter Johnson would make sense if we can peel him away from Clemson because he would have to sit a year and Purdue is at least 2-3 years away from getting the players on offense to be a big time competetior. Adding Amad really helps and so would addif Moore. It's also important to continue improving the offensive line. Looking at the pro style offense Hunter could see that he would be a three year starter at Purdue and may not start a single year at Clemson. Which is an incredible thing to say because he looks to be a top 5 QB in the nation with the limited looks. Purdue has put some very good QBs in the league and it's a lot closer to home for him. There is a very unconfirmed rumor that CJB is trying to bring in a big name transfer and Hunter makes the most sense. Either way, that won't affect next year's playing time but it is something to watch for.

 

[npb]

View embedded media

I know this is his high school highlight film...but if you watch (without the commentary), you'll notice a few things that Brohm will be able to copy and paste to make him efficient and effective if needed:

1. Sparks shows a good touch on his deep passes toward the sideline...something Brohm has made a point to focus.
2. On the last play of the highlight film, Sparks shows a good ability to throw on the run. This is the aspect I believe Brohm may look to expand on for Sparks in a RPO (run/pass option). Sparks may roll out of the pocket and be given two route options: a short and an intermediate route. He also has the option to run if it is open OR if the WR's are covered. Typically you would see a TE coming from across the field being the intermediate route and the WR from the short side of the field running a 10-15 yard out or a comeback route as well. The places a huge issue on the play side OLB and safety as if they do not cover the TE coming across (if playing a zone), it will lead to dink and dunk passes killing the defense down the field...if they cover that short route, it'll open up Sparks to a running lane.
3. Sparks could conceivably throw a deep ball as a simple drop back passer at times if a look is given and the safeties creep up against the traditional wildcat (NASCAR) package. I don't think NU has the horses on the outside to compete with Phillips and Mahoungo if they can go over the top frequently. If that's the case, Sparks is going to have lots of running room.
4. This is all said in a best case scenario. If Sparks can come in and give the offense a different look, gain 40-50 yards rushing, and possibly throw for 15-30 yards on top of that...it'll go a long way to Purdue being in the game late in the 4th quarter.

You really know your stuff! I am really impressed with your insight. Thanks, Norm

 

[JohnnyDoeBoiler]

Can you explain his zero pass attempts?

Cause I sure can't.

We can speculate all we want, but when you have someone so explosive as a runner, Brohm knows d@mn well how much it opens up the passing game. Sure makes one think there's a reason he hasn't tossed the ball. Not once.

Maybe they'll dispel the mystery this weekend . . .

Because there were two...now one...guy ahead of him that throw the ball better than he does. Nothing to hide in that context BUT given he is now the #2 and he is likely needed to be used given Blough had success running the option the last few weeks, Sparks' ability to run and be an above-average thrower will come in handy if Purdue wants to win in the next three weeks.

 

[JohnnyDoeBoiler]

It was reported that Plummer is enrolling in January. That tells me 2 things. 1) he thinks he can play early, so getting in early to get stronger and gain weight helps his chances. 2) CJB likely told him if he wants any chance at playing as a true freshman he needed to arrive early.

I am like everybody else here. I don't know what Purdue has in Sipe, I don't know how Blough comes back, and I don't know how Sindelar improves being the sole QB. If Sindelar come out looking like an all pro and Blough is healthy, there is no way Plummer avoids the redshirt.

It's also possible that CJB is looking for a transfer. Hunter Johnson would make sense if we can peel him away from Clemson because he would have to sit a year and Purdue is at least 2-3 years away from getting the players on offense to be a big time competetior. Adding Amad really helps and so would addif Moore. It's also important to continue improving the offensive line. Looking at the pro style offense Hunter could see that he would be a three year starter at Purdue and may not start a single year at Clemson. Which is an incredible thing to say because he looks to be a top 5 QB in the nation with the limited looks. Purdue has put some very good QBs in the league and it's a lot closer to home for him. There is a very unconfirmed rumor that CJB is trying to bring in a big name transfer and Hunter makes the most sense. Either way, that won't affect next year's playing time but it is something to watch for.

If Johnson comes to Purdue, that would be a seismic shift for Purdue and Brohm. The kid would be the highest recruit to step foot on campus in 25 years. That being said, I think Johnson would probably end up somewhere a bit bigger than Purdue.

 

[FirstDownB]

Because there were two...now one...guy ahead of him that throw the ball better than he does. Nothing to hide in that context BUT given he is now the #2 and he is likely needed to be used given Blough had success running the option the last few weeks, Sparks' ability to run and be an above-average thrower will come in handy if Purdue wants to win in the next three weeks.

I think we're all probably saying about the same thing. The issue may be the term "ability". Just for kicks I looked it up and there are 2 quite different definitions:
1. possession of the means or skill to do something.
2. talent, skill, or proficiency in a particular area.

Definition #1 is synonymous with "capacity". Definition #2 is synonymous with "prowess".

We believe, since he was recruited as a D1 QB, has played the position, and is listed as the back-up, that he obviously has the capacity to throw a football. Whether or not he has D1 prowess throwing is yet to be determined. But that is really a moot point, because if the defense is completely selling out on the run, the idea is that he can pull it back at an opportune time and hit a wide open receiver or tight end on a delayed release downfield.

 

[StickPurdue]

If Johnson comes to Purdue, that would be a seismic shift for Purdue and Brohm. The kid would be the highest recruit to step foot on campus in 25 years. That being said, I think Johnson would probably end up somewhere a bit bigger than Purdue.

I don't disagree. I think if CJB finds a way to land Johnson, they have a legit shot at Bell and other high priority targets. It would be the most significant recruit in recent memory. They already have Karliftas in the 19 class, so it would be easy to get people to jump on board to play with Hunter and Karliftas. Hunter fasforwards the rebuild process by about 3 years. I am not saying he will, but if Hunter decomits there is no reason Purdue doesn't get a look. Pro-style offense close to home with a former QB as the head coach. Hunter is obviously best case scenario.

I also point out that regardless of Hunter's decision, Plummers early enrollment shows he wants to play early. That is very unlikely, but he may be able to show something and bulk up. Got to watch him.

 

[Purdue85]

Because there were two...now one...guy ahead of him that throw the ball better than he does. Nothing to hide in that context BUT given he is now the #2 and he is likely needed to be used given Blough had success running the option the last few weeks, Sparks' ability to run and be an above-average thrower will come in handy if Purdue wants to win in the next three weeks.

All true, but he's been behind center numerous times in numerous games, and ZERO pass attempts. Given Brohm's proclivity toward trick plays, that's odd, no matter how you choose to spin it.

 

[Purdue85]

One possible explanation is there have been two healthy QB’s playing ahead of him who are better passers, one of which had some mobility. There’s only so much you can cram into a game plan for a week, and playing a third QB in a game is just asking for a turnover. With a full week’s prep as the #2 QB I would assume Sparks is taking a few more snaps. Might be a better time to throw in the pass option. We shall see in a few days, but to say he has no throwing ability is just flat wrong. Brohm wouldn’t have him as the backup QB with a bowl game in play if he couldn’t pass.

Whoa, brother. Stop yourself right there.

I never, EVER stated "he couldn't pass", nor did I state "he has no throwing ability."

In fact, I think it's quite the opposite. However, (and as I just posted in another reply) given Brohm and how much he likes to surprise defenses, there have been ample opportunities for #12 to air it out!

 

[FirstDownB]

Whoa, brother. Stop yourself right there.

I never, EVER stated "he couldn't pass", nor did I state "he has no throwing ability."

In fact, I think it's quite the opposite. However, (and as I just posted in another reply) given Brohm and how much he likes to surprise defenses, there have been ample opportunities for #12 to air it out!

Ok. I was just going by your initial response to Johnny.

 

[Purdue85]

Ok. I was just going by your initial response to Johnny.

Thank you.

For clarity, here was my initial response:

You might want to reconsider that point. Sparks has been under center a variety of times throughout the year, and with all the opportunities has YET to throw that first pass . . . which should tell you something..

He's an incredible athlete, yes. But a QB with an ability to throw the ball? If Brohm thought so we would have seen it by now. I'm just guessing . . . .

Any disagreement? Seriously, I meant that post as a means of discussion.

Any idea why Brohm . . . a QB's coach . . . (!) . . . wouldn't have someone like Sparks throw the ball? Especially on a team searching for a QB solution?

Wouldn't that seem to indicate something? Doesn't it scream something?

Especially given the fact, HE calls the plays?

I don't know, and maybe I'm reading too much into it, but nearly every time Sparks comes into the game and lines up behind center, I'm hoping to see his arm. Yet, it has NEVER happened.

Why?

 

[JohnnyDoeBoiler]

Thank you.

For clarity, here was my initial response:

You might want to reconsider that point. Sparks has been under center a variety of times throughout the year, and with all the opportunities has YET to throw that first pass . . . which should tell you something..

He's an incredible athlete, yes. But a QB with an ability to throw the ball? If Brohm thought so we would have seen it by now. I'm just guessing . . . .

Any disagreement? Seriously, I meant that post as a means of discussion.

Any idea why Brohm . . . a QB's coach . . . (!) . . . wouldn't have someone like Sparks throw the ball? Especially on a team searching for a QB solution?

Wouldn't that seem to indicate something? Doesn't it scream something?

Especially given the fact, HE calls the plays?

I don't know, and maybe I'm reading too much into it, but nearly every time Sparks comes into the game and lines up behind center, I'm hoping to see his arm. Yet, it has NEVER happened.

Why?

Your thoughts, I believe, are spot on in terms of asking why we haven't seen it yet. I think had they had it in the playbook, you may have seen it against teams like Whisky, Rutgers, and Nebraska where the offense struggled at times to score points and a score in those games likely means a Purdue W. That being said, I think if it wasn't installed before it could be installed this week given Blough's injury and a need to get the defense off balance a bit more.

 

[snowsquirrel11]

Defense: Purdue runs, what I believe to be, a 3-4 with a stand-up DE/LB in Danny E. He doesn't put his hand in the dirt but his job is essentially to make plays on the outside and get to the QB. He has done a very good job up to this point of the season with 29 total tackles, 6 TFL's, 4 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FF, and 3 FR's. The front seven is really where the strength of the defense has been all season but the depth is usually the concern. Some young guys have stepped up throughout the season (LB Derrick Barnes for example) but the true strength is in the very experienced LB's. MLB Jawhan Bentley has 74 tackles, 8.5 TFL's, 1 INT, and 3 passes defended, Markus Bailey has 58 total tackles, 7 TFL's, 5 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FR, and 1FF, and TJ McCollum has 40 tackles, 2 TFL's, and 1 PD (McCollum has missed the previous 4 games with injury but is likely to return this week). The two DT's in Robinson and Neal have combined for 3 sacks and 13 TFL's for the season.

The main issue with the defense is the DB's and Purdue has been without their best CB for the last two games...which hurt against Nebraska. Purdue went with a different CB in the second half of the Illinois game and he appears to be a much better coverage CB (Tim Cason). It is an opportunistic defense that 15 TO's on the season but went through a dry spell for two games before getting a TO against Illinois in the second half. Your QB is subject to some INT problems it appears and Purdue has shown a knack for making some defensive plays in the past. If Purdue can get two TO's, they have a chance...especially if they give the improving offense a short field to play with.

Purdue appears to be some what aggressive at times and if Hunte is able to play, you may see Purdue play man to man on the outside to try and bottle up the NU running game. If that happens, it allows the safeties to play the pass better and focus more attention there to help the CB's.

Sindelar has been good at times and shows an ability to play well at times...but the offense has stalled at times with him at the helm. He is a total statue in the pocket BUT he moves better inside the pocket than Blough did. He has an ability to run if a lane opens up but he isn't going to run much of the spread option runs that Purdue was showing with Blough. Likely you will see Jared Sparks, who now plays WR, to get snaps in what Purdue calls their NASCAR package. Sparks is probably one of the best overall athletes on the field and has an ability to throw the ball as he spent the entire spring and summer playing QB under Brohm's tutelage...he'll just have to get coached up a bit on his reads. Likely he'll have RPO's where there are only two passing options (short and medium). Given the chance, he can break off a long run.

Purdue will likely lean very heavily on the running game this week and then try to play action pass over the top using Sindelar's ability to push the ball downfield versus Blough's quick thinking and accuracy on the short routes.

Good analysis, however I have one correction. McCollum isn't expected to play this game, at best he is a game time decision but its still less likely he plays than he does. Hunt is back though, so that will help our pass d.

 

[JohnnyDoeBoiler]

Good analysis, however I have one correction. McCollum isn't expected to play this game, at best he is a game time decision but its still less likely he plays than he does. Hunt is back though, so that will help our pass d.

I'll make that correction as Brohm said he was 50/50 instead of likely.

 

[shakes3858]

I’ve determined based on the extensive research of watching 1 game that Spark’s cannot throw the ball but is a hell of a receiver. Schopper, on the other hand, is the greatest passer I’ve ever seen.

 

[SIBoiler2]

I'm not convinced Sparks can even hand off. The one series he was in he ran 3 straight times then when Brohm decided to go for it on 4th down he brought in Sindelar to HAND OFF. Sparks is a developing threat at receiver. I'd leave him there and develop that aspect of his athleticism.

 

[Purdue85]

I’ve determined based on the extensive research of watching 1 game that Spark’s cannot throw the ball but is a hell of a receiver. Schopper, on the other hand, is the greatest passer I’ve ever seen.

Most of us are not limited only one (1) game with Sparks at QB. Most of us have watched ten. In those 10 games we've struggled with finding a full time QB, going back and forth between two who cannot demonstrate they can reliably and consistently move the chains.

What's more, in those 10 games, there have been approximately TWENTY ONE (21) times Sparks has lined up behind center . . . and never so much as dropped back to pass. (21 rushing attempts, most?, all?, from the wildcat formation.)

Schopper is 1-1. Anthrop is 1-1. Yet, Brohm apparently hasn't even thought of having Sparks toss the ball downfield? Really? This from a coach who has a demonstrated a willingness to run "trick" plays to surprise the defense

A recruited QB, who has been #3 on the depth chart, at QB, and has lined up many, many games at WR, many games come in behind center as QB . . . with no passing attempts . . . . yet we're not to read anything into that?

 

[shakes3858]

Most of us are not limited only one (1) game with Sparks at QB. Most of us have watched ten. In those 10 games we've struggled with finding a full time QB, going back and forth between two who cannot demonstrate they can reliably and consistently move the chains.

What's more, in those 10 games, there have been approximately TWENTY ONE (21) times Sparks has lined up behind center . . . and never so much as dropped back to pass. (21 rushing attempts, most?, all?, from the wildcat formation.)

Schopper is 1-1. Anthrop is 1-1. Yet, Brohm apparently hasn't even thought of having Sparks toss the ball downfield? Really? This from a coach who has a demonstrated a willingness to run "trick" plays to surprise the defense

A recruited QB, who has been #3 on the depth chart, at QB, and has lined up many, many games at WR, many games come in behind center as QB . . . with no passing attempts . . . . yet we're not to read anything into that?

I’ve just enjoyed the heated debate on the topic and figured I’d add a little fuel to the fire.

Anyway, i hate it when visiting fans stay on the Northwestern board long after their team won (i also began to hate the Northwestern board. It’s one dude that was once a low level staffer for the team trying to pretend like he knows more than everyone. Hes also proven to be let’s just say super low IQ). BUt anyway, It’s time for me to go.